What Are Palpitations?
Palpitations (pal-pi-TA-shuns) are feelings that
your heart is skipping a beat, fluttering, or beating too hard or fast. You may
have these feelings in your chest, throat, or neck. They can occur during
activity or even when youre sitting still or lying down.
Overview
Many things can trigger palpitations, including:
- Strong emotions
- Vigorous physical activity
- Medicines, such as diet pills and
decongestants
- Caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, and illegal
drugs
- Certain medical conditions, such as thyroid
disease or
anemia
(uh-NEE-me-eh)
These factors make the heart beat faster or stronger
than usual, or they cause occasional
premature
(extra) heartbeats. In these situations, the heart is still working
normally, and the palpitations are usually harmless.
Sometimes palpitations are symptoms of
arrhythmias
(ah-RITH-me-ahs). Arrhythmias are problems with the speed or rhythm of the
heartbeat. Some arrhythmias are signs of heart disease, including
heart
attack,
heart
failure,
heart
valve problems, or
heart
muscle problems. However, less than half of the people who have
palpitations have arrhythmias.
People can reduce or prevent palpitations by
avoiding things that trigger them (such as stress and stimulants) and treating
related medical conditions.
Outlook
Palpitations are very common. They usually
arent serious or harmful, but they can be bothersome. If you have them,
your doctor can check to see whether you need treatment or ongoing care.
December 2007
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